As the holiday season approaches, many households in the U.S. begin their preparations with a beloved tradition: the Advent Calendar. These calendars are more than just a countdown to Christmas. They offer moments of joy, anticipation, and even a daily treat for children and adults alike. However, while Advent Calendars are a staple in American and European cultures, they are still a relatively new and rare concept in Brazil.

The Origins of the Advent Calendar

The Advent Calendar originated in 19th-century Germany, with traditions like lighting candles or marking chalk lines to count down to Christmas. Over time, these simple gestures evolved into printed calendars with daily Bible verses or poems. By the 20th century, Advent Calendars featured small doors or windows hiding surprises like pictures, chocolates, or tiny gifts.

The calendar’s name comes from the Advent season in Christian traditions, which spans the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While it originated as a religious practice, today, the Advent Calendar has transcended its spiritual roots, becoming a cherished tradition for families of all backgrounds.

Advent Calendar Options in the United States

In the United States, Advent Calendars are widely available, with countless options catering to every interest and age group. From traditional chocolate-filled calendars to elaborate versions featuring toys, skincare products, and even wine or whiskey for adults, the choices are truly endless. Retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart ensure that everyone can find an Advent Calendar that suits their tastes and budget.

Here are some popular options available on Amazon:

This year, living in United States, I decided to join the tradition with my family by purchasing two Advent Calendars: a Lego version for my kids and a chocolate Kinder calendar for everyone to enjoy. These calendars add a festive touch to our home and create daily moments of excitement as we count down to Christmas together.

The Advent Calendar in Brazil: A New Tradition

In contrast, the concept of the Advent Calendar is just beginning to gain traction in Brazil. Growing up, I never encountered these calendars in stores or at home. However, with the increasing influence of international trends, they are slowly appearing on the shelves of major retailers and online stores.

Despite this growth, Advent Calendars remain a niche product in Brazil, often limited in variety and priced significantly higher than in the United States. For instance, imported calendars featuring popular brands or intricate designs can cost more than double their price abroad, making them a luxury item for many Brazilian families.

Why Embrace the Advent Calendar Tradition?

Although they are still uncommon in Brazil, Advent Calendars have the potential to bring families closer during the holiday season. They encourage bonding, build anticipation, and add an extra layer of magic to December. As more options become available, this tradition could become a cherished part of Brazilian Christmas celebrations.

Create Your Own Advent Calendar

If you’re looking for a more personalized approach, creating your own Advent Calendar is a wonderful option. Not only does it allow you to customize the surprises behind each day, but it also adds a unique, handmade touch to your holiday celebrations.

For inspiration, Etsy is a treasure trove of creative ideas and customizable templates. You can find everything from wooden countdown calendars and fabric pouches to printable designs that you can assemble at home. Some options even include slots or pockets where you can add your own treats, notes, or small gifts.

Here are a few ideas for creating your own Advent Calendar:

• Daily Notes or Messages: Write heartfelt messages or fun challenges for each day, like “Bake cookies together” or “Watch a Christmas movie.”
• Small Toys or Trinkets: For children, include small toys, stickers, or craft supplies.
• DIY Treats: Fill each day with homemade goodies like cookies or candies.
• Themed Gifts: Match the surprises to a specific theme, such as self-care, holiday recipes, or family activities.

The beauty of making your own Advent Calendar lies in its flexibility. It can be as simple or elaborate as you want, catering to your family’s preferences and budget. Moreover, it can become a creative project that brings everyone together before the holiday season truly begins.

If you’re interested in browsing pre-made DIY Advent Calendar kits or customizable options, Etsy offers an incredible selection to help you get started. With so many styles and themes available, you’re sure to find one that fits your vision perfectly.

Final Thoughts on Advent Calendars

Whether you grew up with Advent Calendars or are discovering them for the first time, there’s no denying their charm. They’re a delightful way to countdown to Christmas while creating memories with loved ones.

Incorporating this tradition into my family’s holiday routine has been a joyful experience, and I look forward to exploring new options each year. If you’re curious about starting your own Advent Calendar tradition, there are plenty of affordable and creative options to choose from, whether you’re in the U.S., Brazil, or anywhere else.

What’s your favorite type of Advent Calendar? Share your thoughts and traditions in the comments below!